The
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine
Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) reminds all whale watchers, commercial
vessels and others to give endangered right whales a wide berth, as
mandated by Federal Rule 62 FR 6729, 50 CFR 224.103(c). This
rule prohibits the approach of vessels, aircraft, or by other means
to within 500 yards of right whales, which are an endangered species.

Ship and boat collisions are among the
primary causes of death for this critically endangered whale. NOAA
Fisheries promulgated this rule in an attempt to reduce the potential
for vessel interaction and injury to the whales. The rule includes
avoidance measures which require vessels or aircraft within 500 yards
of a right whale to immediately depart the area at a slow, safe speed
in a direction away from the whale.

According to Barb Zoodsma, a fisheries
biologist with NOAA Fisheries, it is more important than ever to give
these animals their space – particularly off the Georgia and
Florida coasts. “This is the only known right whale calving
area in the world, and it is very important that we give these new
moms and their calves the solitude and space that they need to nurse
and form a strong maternal bond,” said Zoodsma. “This
is essential for calves to grow, strengthen, and make the long journey
north to their summer feeding grounds.”

NOAA Fisheries encourages vessel operators
transiting along coastal Florida and Georgia to remain alert and look
for right whales. If a right whale is spotted, report the sighting
to the United States Coast Guard so they can issue alerts, and please
remain vigilant as other whales are likely in the area and change
course to slowly and safely move away from the whale.

NOAA
Fisheries is dedicated to protecting and preserving our nation’s
living marine resources, and the habitat on which they depend, through
scientific research, management and enforcement. Our stewardship of
these resources benefits the nation by supporting coastal communities
that depend upon them, while helping to provide safe and healthy seafood
to consumers and recreational opportunities for the American public.
To learn more about NOAA Fisheries, please visit: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov.